AFS Saint John Subgroup Meeting Minutes
Date: December 01, 2025
Held At: Vito’s Restaurant, 2 Peel Plaza
Commenced: 5:19
IN ATTENDANCE:
Lori Rowe, Mike Kane, Mike Maxan, Sabra Howe, Aaron Everett, Brian Whelly, Gayle Armstrong, Sam Lawson
ABSENT:
Dawn Brown, Jennifer Sparks, Jeffrey Wayow
ITEMS
The meeting was called to order at 5:19 pm by Chair, Lori Rowe. UPON MOTION, duly made by Lori, seconded by Gayle, and unanimously carried, it was resolved the agenda of the meeting was verified and approved.
1. July 30, 2025 – Minutes were previously distributed by Sabra Howe via email on August 06, 2025 and December 02, 2025, in preparation for this meeting. UPON MOTION, duly made by Sabra, seconded by Brian, and unanimously carried, it was resolved the meeting minutes were verified and approved.
2. Financial Report presented by Aaron Everett - The account balance is $XXX. Aaron explained that we are awaiting Better Together funds from the ice cream social in the amount of $XXX. Lori and Aaron discussed the shirts ordered for the executive and for distribution at AFS events, which cost $XXX. Aaron advised that we are approved for the $XXX of Better Together funding, but to get it, we need to hold an event that members sign in for, and there needs to be no more $XXX per attendee spent. Lori said we will not be holding an event until the new year and asked how long the approval is good for. Aaron wasn’t sure but said he will check. We have enough cash to cover the cost of the sweaters if we don’t get the $XXX. Lori said she would follow up with her peers who had advised they got funding for the sweaters without holding events.
For budgeting purposes, Aaron advised that the subgroup is safe to spend $XXX. It was discussed using the $XXX that we have left to purchase approximately 10 Yeti mugs with the AFS logo to give away as gifts. Lori thought the cost would be $XXX per mug.
UPON MOTION, duly made by Aaron, seconded by Brain, and unanimously carried, it was resolved to accept the financial report.
3. Old Business
a) WFAs - There are five in total – three retired, one retained and remaining expected to be retained.
Announcements regarding WFAs are likely this week, with none anticipated for CRA, but expected for two other federal departments.
b) Grievance update summary - Duty to Accommodate (5 grievances – in abeyance) These grievances are currently in abeyance due to the absence of a Duty to Accommodate Specialist. Sabra explained that the earliest appointment of such a specialist is expected in approximately six months, meaning these cases will likely remain unresolved until the new year. No change since the last meeting.
c) Committees with PIPSC attendees:
• OSH- Jeffrey Waylow and Deeksha Deeksha
• Retrofit Project – Mike Kane
• Building Management – tenants – Lori Rowe
d) Other - Federal tenants at 65 Canterbury Street:
1. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
2. Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
3. Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
4. Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)
5. Public Service and Procurement Canada (PSPC)
4. New Business
a) YPN - Lori expressed the desire to have a PIPSC NB member join the YPN, as we currently have no representation. Please remain attentive for potential candidates who may be interested.
b) WhatsApp – Lori asked if there were any concerns regarding the use of the new app and outlined its advantages. All attendees agreed with continuation of the app.
c) December PIPSC AGM in Toronto - Lori, Mike Maxan, and Sabra will be attending. Normally, attendance follows a ratio of 1:200, which is very costly, with this year’s estimated expense at approximately $XXXM. The ratio will be adjusted to reduce both the number of attendees and overall costs. As a result, in some years the Atlantic region may not have a seat, based on a rational allocation process.
d) Dues Increase - Last year, the amount was $XXX; however, this year it will be calculated based on a 3% increase. A percentage adjustment was suggested for last year, but instead a fixed amount was chosen.
e) Lunch & Learn - Lori asked whether we should consider holding another session. Suggestions included topics on pensions and DTA. It has been several years since a pension session was last offered, and given the current environment, such a session would be particularly relevant.
f) Training – Sabra advised that DTA training is needed, as this has become a significant issue, particularly since the ROOP. While some DTA situations are valid, others may not be, raising questions about what the employer can ask and do. Lori will bring this forward to the training team. Follow‑up is required by Lori.
Late January/early February 2026 watch for the Atlantic Regional training schedule to be released. Expected dates are April 16 to 18th, all three days.
g) New Steward – Congratulations to Sam Lawson, our newest Steward and who has received all the training. Welcome to the team!!
h) Roundtable
Sabra asked about AFS executives who do not attend meetings – how long can they remain part of the executive? Brian shared the following:
AFS Sub-Group Constitution and by-law
6.7.3 Any member who is absent from two (2) consecutive meetings of the Sub Group Executive without valid reason shall be deemed to have resigned from the Sub-Group Executive.
Lori Rowe motioned to adjourn the meeting.
Minutes prepared by Sabra Howe.